Movies That Inspire Courage

Courage is a common theme for movies and one of the character strengths and life skills essential to kids' overall growth and success. From superheroes to animated adventures to true stories of overcoming adversity, many great films feature courageous characters standing up for what they believe in. But courage isn't only about fighting monsters and bad guys. It can be demonstrated by stepping up for someone, sharing work with others, or simply being yourself. It's important for kids to learn the value of taking on challenges despite risks, speaking up for what's right no matter what, and being true to their convictions. These awesome movies highlight courage in ways that are central to the story, proving that bold action wins out over cowardice. For more choices, visit our list of TV That Inspires Courage.

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Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed Poster
MOVIE

Naked Mole Rat Gets Dressed: The Underground Rock Experience

age 3+

Musical has big lesson, huge heart that all ages will love.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2022)
The Adventures of Milo and Otis Poster Image
MOVIE

The Adventures of Milo and Otis

age 5+

Lovable pet tale about friendship despite differences.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1989)
Finding Nemo Poster Image
MOVIE

Finding Nemo

age 5+

Sweet father-son tale has some very scary moments.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2003)
Kiki's Delivery Service Poster Image
MOVIE

Kiki's Delivery Service

age 5+

A mystical, positive take on girl's coming of age.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1990)
Monsters, Inc. Poster Image
MOVIE

Monsters, Inc.

age 5+

Cute, kid-friendly monster movie; may scare sensitive kids.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2001)
Mulan Poster Image
MOVIE

Mulan

age 5+

Disneyfied but dignified tale of Chinese warrior.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1998)
Toy Story 4 Poster Image
MOVIE

Toy Story 4

age 5+

Big-hearted, touching finale to Pixar's legendary franchise.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2019)
Aladdin Poster Image
MOVIE

Aladdin

age 6+

A magic carpet ride of a movie from Disney.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1992)
Frozen 2 Poster Image
MOVIE

Frozen 2

age 6+

Slightly darker sequel charms with catchy songs, messages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2019)
The Iron Giant Poster Image
MOVIE

The Iron Giant

age 6+

Touching robot-kid friendship tale has great messages.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1999)
The Lion King (1994) Poster Image
MOVIE

The Lion King (1994)

age 6+

Musical king-of-the-beasts blockbuster is powerful, scary.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1994)
The Sound of Music Movie Poster: Maria stands in a meadow, her arms outstretched, and the children behind her
MOVIE

The Sound of Music

age 6+

Outstanding family classic has glorious music.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1965)
The Wizard of Oz Poster Image
MOVIE

The Wizard of Oz

age 6+

One of the best family films ever made; has scary moments.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1939)
Big Hero 6 Poster Image
MOVIE

Big Hero 6

age 7+

Awesome origin story is action-packed, deals with grief.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2014)
The Good Dinosaur Poster Image
MOVIE

The Good Dinosaur

age 7+

Young dino braves nature in lovely but intense adventure.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2015)
Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone Poster Image
MOVIE

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone

age 7+

First Potter movie is a magical ride but also intense.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2001)
The Incredibles Poster Image
MOVIE

The Incredibles

age 7+

Top-notch, action-packed fun for the entire family.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2004)
Song of the Sea Poster Image
MOVIE

Song of the Sea

age 7+

Beautiful Irish tale explores myths, sibling relationship.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2014)
Spy Kids Poster Image
MOVIE

Spy Kids

age 7+

Just the right combination of fantasy and comedy.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 2001)
Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope Poster Image
MOVIE

Star Wars: Episode IV: A New Hope

age 7+

Sci-fi action classic perfect for sharing with kids.

On DVD/Streaming (Release Year: 1977)